Tag Archives: Wedding Catering Manila

Mastering Sushi Etiquette

Leave a reply

 

What are the keys in mastering sushi etiquette?

  1. Call ahead of time to make a reservation and inform the chef of any food allergies you have.
  2. If you have a reservation, then you must show up.
  3. Prepare cash in case the restaurant doesn’t accept credit cards.
  4. Don’t wear strong perfume or cologne
  5. Order appetizers and drinks while waiting for the main dishes.
  6. Wipe your hands in the warm towels given
  7. Use your hands when eating sushi.
  8. Use chopsticks to eat sashimi and ginger. Place the chopsticks back on the ceramic holder when you are not using it.
  9. Eat the sushi from lighter to oilier.
  10. Have the first bite without condiments.
  11. Add only a little bit of soy sauce and dip the sushi on its fish side.
  12. Refrain from adding wasabi.
  13. Eat the sushi in one bite.
  14. Eat the ginger given with the sushi to cleanse you palate.
  15. Finish what you order.
  16. Show your gratitude to the chef. Buy him sake if you want to give him a tip.

Sushi, a popular type of food with its origins firmly rooted in Japan, has become a worldwide favorite. What was once a rather rare and local delicacy has now expanded into the palates of people all around the world. For example, here in the Philippines, sushi is a popular choice for corporate catering events – especially those being held in Manila. The same can be said for other countries such as the US, Canada, Australia, and even Hong Kong, where restaurant chains that serve Japanese cuisine exclusively are present and thriving.

What many people forget is that, despite sushi’s deceivingly simple appearance and balanced taste, there exists a whole culture that backs it up. Unlike most other dishes that may be eaten simply by placing it in one’s mouth, sushi has a particular set of customs attributed to it. Although it is not strictly enforced in other counties as it is in Japan, observing these rules will show you pay respect to its origins.

Here are the basic do’s and don’ts when eating sushi:

Before the Meal

Especially when you are looking to eat in a non-chain sushi restaurant it is important to give the venue a call. This is not just to make a reservation, but also to inform them of any restrictions in your diet. Japanese restaurants all have the strong desire to please their customers, but must know beforehand of any allergies and medical limitations in order to accommodate you to the best of its abilities.

When you make a reservation, be sure to show up because no-shows are looked down upon. You must understand that sushi must be served fresh and it will be wasted if you make them prepare your meals and then have to throw it away. Because of this waste of ingredient, you may still be asked to pay for the meal even if you didn’t show up.

Also, prepare some cash just to be sure because some sushi restaurant does not accept credit cards

Lastly, do not wear strong perfume or cologne when you are about to enter the restaurant. This is because sushi was made to be enjoyed, not only because of the taste, but also because of the smell. Carrying a strong aroma with you can ruin the experience for yourself and the people around you. This is especially true in the most upscale sushi restaurants where it is usually housed in small and narrow spaces.

Mastering Sushi Etiquette

Beginning the Meal

Like said above, the sushi will be made fresh by the chef. While waiting, it’s a good practice to order appetizers and drinks from the server should you feel the need to munch on something. Edamame (boiled soy beans), Suimono (clear broth), or Misoshiru (fermented soybean soup) are the common orders; as for the drinks green tea or water will suffice. Refrain from getting strong tasting foods as to not wash out the taste of the sushi once it comes – part of the joys of partaking in sushi is enjoying the fair taste of the fish and the rice.

Before starting the meal itself, wipe your hands with the warm towel provided and ensue your hands are clean. Pick up the sushi with your hands – this is considered as good manners because it keeps the perfect form the chef made the sushi in. But if eating sashimi or ginger, use chopsticks instead.

A side note: when the chopsticks are not in use, do not lay it flat on the table or on your plate. Use the ceramic holder that’s usually provided or make one using the paper wrapper the chopstick came in.

Mastering Sushi Etiquette

Eating

In Japanese culture, it is recommended to eat sushi in a certain order for the best experience. It is said that you must first start with whitefish and lighter sushi and work your way towards the oilier items like toro and grilled eel.

Eat the first bite without any added condiments or the like so you know how it tastes on its own. If it ends up not being to your taste, feel free to dip it into a bit of soy sauce – do not put it in rice down (and avoid mixing the wasabi in). Instead, flip it over and dip the fish side instead; see to it that you do not add too much sauce – this would insinuate that the chef did not do his job properly and that the sushi does not taste good. Traditionally, the chef would already add the necessary amount of wasabi to make the perfect sushi. Adding more would be insulting to the chef so as much as possible, try to eat it as it’s served. Place it on your tongue, face down for the full flavor and do your best to eat everything in one bite. If it’s not possible, do it in two and ask the chef to proportion it for you – understand that the chefs want to cater to your wants, it’s his job, so let him do it.

In-between bites of sushi, especially differing ones, pick up bits of ginger slices in order to cleanse your palate. Do this only when your mouth is empty and do not chew the ginger with the sushi.

Ending the Meal

Especially if you avail of the omakase course (which basically means “chef’s choice”) then you must absolutely finish what you order. Failure to do so is considered rude. This is why you want to call ahead of time regarding your dietary restrictions. If you are served something that you cannot eat and you don’t, then you will still be considered rude; the chefs will argue that you should have told them of any of your allergies and medical limitations.

When finished, give credit where it is due. Praise the chef if they created your perfect sushi, after all, there are few things in the world that can make one happier other than being told they’ve done a job well done. Should you find yourself wanting to express your sincere gratitude, don’t tip the chef. Buy him a drink (sake!) instead, and enjoy it together. Cheers!

Key Takeaway

So when you find yourself dining out in a high class restaurant or requesting it from your local caterer for your event – with friends or otherwise – remember these simple manners to avoid committing any social faux pas.

The History of Sugar

Leave a reply

 

kakanin

What is the history of sugar?

  1. Began in New Guinea 10,000 years ago when sugarcane was successfully domesticated
  2. In 500 BC, Indians were producing sugar in the form of cooled syrup molded in large bowls.
  3. In 350 AD, people began to develop a way to convert sugar into a crystallized form.
  4. In 400 AD, people began trading sugar.
  5. In 650 AD, sugar plantations were being built and used.
  6. In the 9th-10th centuries, the Muslims have begun to integrate sugar into their cuisine.
  7. In the 14th-15th centuries, sugar production in Europe spiked through slave labor.
  8. In the 18th century, sugar became a household spice.

As anyone who offers catering services in Manila will tell you, a traditional Pinoy feast is never complete without any form of kakanin – desserts comprised of sweetened rice. After all, it’s customary to eat sweets after a meal; the Filipino variant is no different. The same practice is observed worldwide- indeed, the whole concept of the dessert itself is a testament to the importance of sugar.

It wasn’t always so readily available like it is now, though. It involved an extreme amount of work and various processes to enable its production at the time. Nonetheless, strange as it seems, sugar used to be a rare and expensive luxury.

20120526-sugar cane Cannes-sucre-Georgi

It all began in New Guinea about 10,000 years ago when they were able to successfully domesticate sugar cane. Over time their knowledge of the plant spread to Southeast Asia, southern China, and eventually India, where conditions were perfect for sugar cultivation. In 500 BC, Indians began producing considerable quantities of sugar in the form of cooled syrup molded in large flat bowls; this made the product easier to transport. (They called it khanda, and today this form is more universally recognized as candy.) As time passed they grew more familiar with sugar and eventually by around 350 AD, they developed a way to convert it into a crystallized form.

This made trading the sugar easier, and since they were the only ones with it during the time – about 400AD – trading proved to be incredibly prolific; everywhere the Indians went they shared their expertise with others. Land caravans and trading ships to the Middle East and China carried the Indians’ knowledge over to their territories, and by 650 AD China had sugar cane plantations of their own.

catering in manila

Fast forward to the 9th-10th century where the Muslims had already created a more efficient way of manufacturing sugar and had integrated the ingredient into their cuisine; their sweet products were appreciated by those who were lucky enough to try them. When European warriors descended upon the Muslim during the crusades, they were able to bring some of the “sweet spice” back to their homeland, which attracted the attention of the middle to high class citizens – thus kick-starting an influx of western traders that tried to find their fortune in the East. Nonetheless, sugar prices did not drop at all on account of sugar being very difficult to produce.

Sugar production in Europe spiked during the 14th and 15th century, though the hard work usually fell into the hands of the slaves.

When the 1500s rolled in and European settlers made their way into the Carribean, they found that the lands were perfect for sugar cultivation. Since demand was so high, sugarcane mills started popping up one by one and pushed for the need for more quick, industrial methods of production, thus being the catalyst for the Industrial Revolution that would start at the 17th century. The abundance of producers finally brought the price of sugar down to more acceptable levels, allowing some of the lower class citizens to access it too.

Of course, with the rise of the mills came the demand for cheap labor, and so the slave trade boomed. A lot of the slaves ended up in the Caribbean, further dropping its prices to more than acceptable levels and ending the trade Europe had with India. Sugar popularity remained at an all-time high, leading to the invention of other sweet foods such as jams, coffee, teas, and candies. At the end of the 18th century sugar became a common household spice.

sweets catering manila

As time passes by, the production of sugar has been simplified enough to make it as widely available as it is now. While it was only available to the elites of that era, sugar can now be accessed by and for the masses. Also, without sugar, the desserts known and loved by many will not have come to fruition today.

In fact, the earliest known dessert was the standard fruit by itself. Its sweet taste and mass availability made it easy for people of any generation grab a bite. Eventually, industrialization dawned, and the concepts of bakeshops were introduced.

Though baking itself isn’t exactly an innovation of industrialization as there have been instances of ancient civilizations utilizing heat to create doughy treats, baking was given a serious upgrade at the time with the introduction of ovens and, eventually, confectionaries.

Since its inception in 1851, the process of powdering sugar has been perfected by none other than Oliver Chase. During that year, he developed a mill to perfect the process, which in turn has brought to the world the desserts and treats known by many.

Take for instance, the doughnut. This deep-fried delicacy dusted with powdered sugar has been around for many generations. Another notable example of this is the various candies that were up for grabs during the time. Even before the entrance of the 21st century, sugary treats have become a staple in livelihood and general human memory.

Coming into the 21st century, the process of distributing and creating sugar for various purposes have all been at people’s convenience. A wide array of sugar varieties has been made available for everyone, which in turn leads to the creation of even newer desserts and treats. Sugar has also helped the restaurant industry grow into what it is today, with a majority of their attractions being their desserts. With the evolution of time and the constant perfection of every process, there is no doubt that sugar will continue to bring an impact onto future societies.

Key Takeaway

Sugar has had a tumultuous, interesting journey throughout the annals of human history and culture. It’s considered to be one of the most influential commodities humans have come across, its effects equal to that of gold. It has helped shape the culinary world into the giant it is today and has continued to bring joy in the hearts of their customers worldwide. So, the next time you grab a spoonful of it, remember that it took centuries of effort to get it there.

5 of the Most Basic Table Etiquette

Leave a reply

fine dining

What are the 5 basic table etiquette rules

  1. Chew with your Mouth Closed
  2. Keep Your Smartphone
  3. Use Your Napkin
  4. Keep Your Posture in Check
  5. Converse

Eating has always been an integral part of everyday life, seeing as it is one of our basic needs to survive. No matter what you look or where you look at, food is always bound to be around.

While it can be used purely for survival, it has become one of the most enjoyable activities one can partake in, even more so when it’s done with friends or family. Over the centuries, the act of eating has become diversified, as people from different parts of the world have developed their own manners and culture when it comes to dining. Depending on where you reside in the world and the utensils you decide to use, those manners change.

For instance, in your household, it’s considered proper or ‘okay’ to prop your elbows on the table while you eat. However, when eating in a place outside of your household, that routine or etiquette is bound to change. Same as with other countries. Here in the Philippines, it’s considered okay to eat with your hands on certain occasions. However, upon entrance to any foreign country, make sure to use your utensils at the right instances.

Nevertheless, there exists a basic etiquette that may apply no matter where you are in the world. From French Michelin-starred restaurants down to local caterers in Manila, certain things like posture and basic table manners remain similar with only slight variations, if any. Here are 5 basic dining etiquette you should know in order to have a smooth dining experience.

Chew with your Mouth Closed

This should go without saying, but it’s one most people tend to forget. Chewing with your mouth closed will not only keep your food from ungraciously falling out onto your plate, but it will also keep the other guests from viewing your mushed up morsels as they messily slosh around while you chew.

Also, this etiquette can prove vital in saving your life in a life-threatening situation such as choking on your food. When you talk with food in your mouth, there’s a chance that some food may end up in the wrong pipe, hence the choking part of the problem.

With that said, always chew with your mouth closed. Just remember to slow down and savor each and every bite instead of just gorging on your food like there’s no tomorrow.

Keep Your Smartphone Away

Ostensibly a difficult thing to do for many, though far from impossible. It’s basic etiquette, even when not in front of the table — phones should be used minimally (or better yet, not at all) during heavily social events. It’s customary to focus on the people you’re with rather than those online. After all, why go to a social gathering (like a dinner party perhaps) if you don’t have plans of being social at all? Besides, it can be considered pretty awkward when the person beside you is more interested in what’s behind their phone screen than actually conversing with you. And don’t even get started when this happens during dates.

To make this more interesting, why not make it a bet with you and your friends? Gather all of your phones and stack them atop each other like a tower. The bet is to see which one of you lasts the longest at the table without looking at their phone. Whoever picks up their phone first loses and has to pay the bill for the entire party.

Use Your Napkin

For some, like the Americans, it’s good manners to place a napkin on one’s lap before eating, but for others like the Japanese (who use a warm, rolled-up version) simply cleaning your hands with them is enough. Also, when eating, mind yourself and make sure to wipe all the stains off of your face. After all, it’s a rather unpleasant experience to eat with someone who has half his plate already stuck on his face.

In fact, if you happen to find yourself bored before dinner, your napkin can be a great agent for amusement, which is where origami comes into place. With it, you can fold your napkin into a variety of shapes for further entertainment. Just be sure to keep it neat just in time for your meal.

Keep Your Posture in Check

Do not slouch and keep your elbows off the table as much as you can (especially when eating outside). No one wants to see a physically able person eating like there’s a giant weight on their back.

There’s no reason to hunch over your food like a caveman or sit like you’re floating off the floor; make sure to always sit properly and eat with a straight back and relaxed arms so the food will have no problems traveling down to your digestive system and your guests won’t have to question your position at the table.

Make Sure to Converse

Although some people may prefer to sit quietly while eating, it’s considered a little rude. Do your best to engage in active conversation with those around you, though limit it to those who are on the same table as you. (Shouting over other people is considered very bad manners.) Use your inside voice; try not to make too much of a ruckus but also ensure that the conversation doesn’t fall flat.

For this, all you’ll really need to create a conversation out of anything. It’s the effort to bond with your fellow table-dwellers that counts very much.

Key Takeaway

There’s a lot of other manners that should be considered when on the table. Your dining experience will surely guarantee your satisfaction, even more so when these manners are observed.

With the enlightenment you now have on the basic etiquette to be observed, it’s now up to you to put them into action. That way, you’ll be able to enjoy the food on your plate even more. Having proper manners will give you a good impression with the people you eat food with.